If you live or work around decomposed granite Sacramento projects, you may have noticed something funny. Everyone loves how natural and clean DG looks… but sooner or later, the big question pops up: Is it actually permeable enough for stormwater regulations? We hear this all the time, and honestly, it is a fair question, especially with so many cities tightening rules around runoff.

Let us walk through it together, in the simplest way possible.

Why Permeability Even Matters Today

We all know how quickly water can pool after a good rain, right? Stormwater rules focus on reducing that runoff so water can slowly soak into the soil instead of rushing into drains. The nice thing is that decomposed granite acts like a natural filter. It is not magic… but it helps.

There was a study from the California Stormwater Quality Association showing that permeable materials can cut runoff by up to 70 percent on lightly compacted surfaces. DG often fits into that range when installed correctly. Pretty cool for something that looks so simple.

But How Permeable is DG Really?

Here is where things get interesting. DG is naturally porous because it is made up of small, broken granite particles. Water can move through those gaps pretty easily. But… and this is a big but… the permeability changes depending on the type of DG and how tightly it is compacted.

We usually see three kinds used in projects:

1. Loose Decomposed Granite

This one drains great. Water flows through fast, and it rarely puddles unless the subgrade underneath is clay-heavy. The tradeoff… it can track on shoes.

2. Stabilized DG

This is the middle ground. It still drains, but the binding agent slows it slightly. A 2019 UC Davis field test found stabilized DG absorbs around 1.5–3 inches of water per hour. Pretty solid for walkways, patios, and landscape areas that need ADA-friendly surfaces.

3. Resin-Bound DG

This one drains the least. Resin makes it firm, but also less porous. It can still pass some water, just not as quickly.

So yes… DG is permeable. But the choice of material really decides how much.

The Catch Many People Forget

Here is a little thing folks do not talk about enough. Stormwater compliance is not only about surface permeability. Soil conditions underneath matter just as much… sometimes more.

If DG sits on top of compacted clay, the water will not magically disappear. We have seen DG patios in Sacramento where the layer drains fine, but the ground below slows everything down.

That is why soil prep makes a huge difference. Even something like a 3–4 inch gravel base can help water move through and prevent sogginess.

Does DG Help With Stormwater Compliance?

Most of the time… yes. DG is often used in bioswales, landscape buffers, and low-impact development (LID) areas for a reason. Sacramento, Roseville, and other nearby cities often list permeable granular surfaces as acceptable for reducing runoff.

But… it must be installed correctly. Good slope. Proper base. Right compaction. The usual stuff that makes or breaks a project.

If you are using DG for compliance-focused work, we recommend avoiding resin-bound options. Go with loose or stabilized instead. They allow water to actually travel down to the soil, which is the whole point.

And since you wanted the secondary keyword placed naturally, let us say this… the real trick is making sure your stormwater-friendly surface works with the rest of the landscape design, not against it.

Our Final Take

DG is not perfect for every site, but when used in the right conditions, it can easily meet permeability expectations for many stormwater rules. Just do not skip soil assessment and drainage planning. A simple test hole and a few minutes of checking soil absorption can save a ton of headaches later.

FAQs

1. Does decomposed granite become less permeable over time?

Yes, a bit. Foot traffic and settling can tighten the particles. Light raking once in a while keeps the surface open.

2. Will DG help reduce puddles in a backyard?

Usually yes, unless the soil underneath is clay-heavy. In that case, adding a gravel base helps a lot.

3. Is stabilized DG still considered permeable?

Yes. It drains slower than loose DG but still allows good infiltration.

4. Does DG meet city stormwater requirements?

Many cities accept permeable granular surfaces. Always check local codes because each county word it differently.

5. Can DG replace concrete for stormwater compliance?

Sometimes. DG is great for walkways, paths, and landscape areas… but not ideal for heavy vehicle traffic.